Puppolo opts out of bid for Senate seat

By G. Michael Dobbs
news@thereminder.com
SPRINGFIELD – The state Senate race created by the decision of Gale Candaras not to run for re-election and instead for the job of register of probate has taken another turn: state Rep. Angelo Puppolo Jr. has decided not to run for the Senate.
He cited the desire to spend more time with his family.
Puppolo had said at the Candaras announcement event that he would definitely run and would make an official announcement soon.
Ludlow’s James “Chip” Harrington has announced his intentions to run as a Democrat and East Longmeadow Selectman Debra Boronski is running for the seat as a Republican.
Puppolo told Reminder Publications, “It’s a tough decision, but an easy decision at the end.”
On Feb. 3, though, Puppolo issued two statements, one through a press release and another on his Facebook page.
He wrote on Facebook, “While there has been much speculation this election year, and I have been overwhelmed with support from across the area calling on me to run for state Senate, I have decided to do what’s best for my family and constituents of the 12th Hampden District and to continue the strong, effective, leadership for Wilbraham and parts of Springfield and East Longmeadow in the House of Representatives.
“A major factor in my decision is my family. As you know, I have two young daughters and in the past few weeks, I have missed too many of their basketball games and other family functions contemplating a campaign for Senate. I trust you understand that I have to make sure that my family comes first.
“I currently serve as the vice-chairman of the Committee on State Administration and Regulatory Oversight, and I enjoy my work in the House of Representatives. I have worked very hard to get real results for our district, but there is still more work that needs to be done in the House. As such, our area needs continued strong leadership on Beacon Hill, and I remain committed to making sure our voices are heard.
“My timetable for a formal decision on the 2014 election has always been the beginning of February and that is why I am sharing this information with you today. I plan on taking out nomination papers for state Representative this week, and will have a formal re-election announcement at a later date.”
He concluded, “As always, thank you for your continued support and friendship. I look forward to our continued partnership this year and I will be touch on how you can continue your support for re-election as your state Representative.”